The ‘flies of Barwala’ have become an important political issue in the Assembly elections, with leaders of various political parties promising to address the problem.

At the root is a large number of poultry farms in the area. “Whether you are at home, at your shop, or in your farm, these flies have taken the peace of your mind. It is no more a small issue,” said a resident of Rattewali village.

There are around 50 villages in Barwala, contributing to a significant voter share of Panchkula constituency. The residents have been raising the issue with the leaders for the past few years now, but to no avail. However, with the Vidhan Sabha elections round the corner, the issue has gained prominence.

The issue left Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh amused during his recent rally in Barwala. After speaking about the national issue of border security, Singh asked the gathering, “Aap sab theek hain? Koi samasya to nahi?” And, the voices erupted from the gathering, “Makkhiyan!”

Apart from the unhygienic conditions, the flies have affected the social life of the residents. “People have stopped visiting our villages, and are even hesitant to set up shops here,” said a resident from Kot village.

The issue also caught the eye of Indian National Lok Dal chief Om Prakash Chautala, when one of the local leaders remarked, “Makkhiyon ki wajah se humare ladkon ke liye koi rishta nahi aata (Such is the situation that we do not get proposals for our boys),” and requested Chautala to help.